The winners of this year's Young Writers Competition were announced on Saturday 19 August at Dee Why Council Chambers.

Now in its fourteenth year, the challenge this year was to write a short story based on the theme ‘promise’… and the students certainly kept their promise rising to the occasion.

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins presented the awards to the aspiring writers, encouraging a new generation to continue their commitment to writing in an increasingly technologically focused world.

“Writing is so important for children. It's the fuel that drives communication, and writing enhances problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

“I was so impressed by the depth of talent and passion of students from kindergarten to year 12. It was terrific to see such a diverse range of uplifting, and creative interpretations of the theme.

“Thank you to all the judges who had the very difficult job of selecting 24 finalists as well as the many teachers, school librarians and parents who inspire a love of literacy in our young people.

“Congratulations to all the winners and equally well done to all those who submitted entries in this year’s competition.

This year 400 entries from across 50 schools were received with 24 finalists selected. 

The winners are:

Year K-2
Olivia Pollrock “The Story of the Witch and the Broken Promise”

Year 3-4

Ashley Smith “The Promise of Safety”

Year 5-6

Frankie Boulter “The Last Promise”

Year 7-8

Nico Clausen “Don’t Reach Me”

Year 9- 10

Lillian Hamilton “Evening Rounds”

Year 11-12

Quinn Campbell “Infallible Memories”

All the finalists can be found here.

The students compelling stories explore space, witches, astronauts and robots. They invoke feelings of family, safety, self-belief, love and heartbreak. From War to art theft and cuddly ninja penguins, the creative pieces capture a range of themes and adventures across this world and beyond.

The Young Writers' Competition is an annual competition open to students up to and including year 12 who live or go to school on the Northern Beaches and are members of the Northern Beaches Council Library Service.

Entries are judged according to characterisation, originality, plot and use of language. Stories are arranged into six different age group categories with highly commended, runner up and winner.

All 24 winning stories are available as an eBook from the Libraries’ website.